Last week the Dalmeny Narooma Bushwalkers enjoyed two contrasting walks illustrating the beauty and diversity of our region.

On Thursday, a group of 11 walkers ventured south of Narooma to explore the paddocks and bush of Fairview farm and Wallaga Lake National Park. The walkers set off from near the home of Fairview owners Rod and Chris Greenaway following a track through the dewy paddocks close to Couria Creek. They were astonished at the number of fallen trees on a nearby bush-covered slope, eloquent testimony to the violence of the May storms. After morning tea perched on a fallen log like a group of schoolkids, all dangling feet and happy chatting, the group were led by leaders Maggie Finch and Bob Hales on a roundabout route eventually reaching Wallaga Lake. After a short walk along the lonely shore, the group headed back into the bush finding themselves suddenly in a beautiful and extensive rainforest notable for its abundant and flourishing tree ferns. Many walkers lingered, entranced by the cool peace and lush greenery, before heading back up the hill to the more typical eucalypt bush. A track took the group to another part of the lake shore with excellent views of lake and mountains where lunch was enjoyed before the trek back to the starting point.

On Saturday, 11 walkers led by Margaret and Rody Byrne headed north for a stroll in the Broulee environs. The walk began in The Bower just west of George Bass Drive, a lovely bush retreat owned by Mark and Sue Berry, adjoining the Illawong Nature Reserve. A highlight of this part of the walk was a huge sea eagle?s nest, high in an old spotted gum. The group walked several bush tracks in the Reserve and the Bower, before taking a pretty track to the beach along Candlagan Creek. A short climb took the group up to the Mossy Point headland where they relaxed and had lunch while soaking up the wonderful views.

The walkers thank the leaders of these walks and the generous landowners mentioned above. If you are interested in joining a walk with the Bushwalkers, contact Jan Thomas on 44765157.